Robin,
If this energy is produced by a nuclear reaction, then neutrons and
gamma are produced. This requires significant shielding. In addition,
the "core" would be too active to dig up in five years and haul away for
reprocessing, at least right away. In addition, the electric conversion
equipment would have to be contained in the shielded structure to avoid
releasing radioactive materials. This means the energy conversion
process needs to be completely automatic. While I agree, the hydride
would make the nuclear reaction fail-safe, it does not solve the
significant engineering problems the design would have. UH6 is not used
in conventional nuclear reactors in spite of the fail safe nature
because it is very reactive to water and air. The danger is too great
when water cooling is used. One has to ask how the cooling is
accomplished on this design?
Ed
Robin van Spaandonk wrote:
In reply to Edmund Storms's message of Tue, 27 May 2008 21:28:58 -0600:
Hi,
[snip]
Jones,
After reading the rather poor description on the website, I think this
is only a way to provide chemical heat by converting UH6 to U3O8. No
nuclear reaction is involved or possible. As they say, it is like a
battery that provides energy for a limited time.
[snip]
See their FAQ:-
"How does Hyperion work?
Unlike conventional designs, the proposed reactor is self-regulating through the
inherent properties of uranium hydride, which serves as a combination fuel and
moderator. The temperature-driven mobility of the hydrogen contained in the
hydride controls the nuclear activity. If the core temperature increases over
the set point, the hydrogen is driven out of the core, the moderation drops, and
the power production decreases. If the temperature drops, the hydrogen returns
and the process is reversed. Thus the design is inherently fail-safe and will
require minimal human oversight. The compact nature and inherent safety open the
possibility for low-cost mass production and operation of the reactors."
Regards,
Robin van Spaandonk
The shrub is a plant.
